When you think of coffee, generally, the first career path that comes to mind is barista. However, on a recent industry tour of the Kiwanda café and roastery, our SLES Ipswich trainees were introduced to a world of new opportunities within the coffee world. Monique, Rebecca, and Decklyn all began thinking about different career paths centred around their shared interest in yummy food and hot drinks.

Afford’s School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) offer a range of interactive workplace visits so trainees can gain insight into potential careers and make industry connections.

“The trainees learned about the hospitality industry and its many roles. They also learnt that there are several paths they could choose within one company and there is something for everyone,” said SLES Vocational Trainer, Rose Haley.

The Kiwanda café is the Head Quarters for Zaraffas Australia. The site is home to its head office building, café, restaurant, bar, roastery and warehouse. MoniqueRebecca, and Decklyn saw both the back of house and the customer-facing departments and learned how all departments work together to support the brand.

“Monique currently has a Certificate II in Hospitality and liked the sound of having options for furthering her career with Kiwanda café or one of the Zaraffas franchises,” continued Rose.

Rebecca is in her final year at high school and over the past few weeks at SLES, she has been thinking hard about her prospects for 2022. This industry visit was a step in the right direction in discovering what she might want to do after school. Rebecca learnt more about on-the-job training, which put some of her nerves about working for the first time at ease.

“Bec also shared that knowing she could get started with Kiwanda even with no experience made her feel more inclined to apply for a customer service role. Getting to drink coffee all day was also a big selling point,” said Rose.

They finished the day with free coffees and watched their tour guide in action over the register and coffee machine. With full cups and full minds, our trainees left the industry visit feeling excited about their futures.

When you join our SLES program, you will be introduced to a world of opportunities and have support by your side to navigate what path is right for you.

Was this page helpful?

Is there anything missing on this page? Please let us know

Is there anything missing on this page? Please let us know

Skip to content